FASCINATION

FASCINATION

I know that this entry's title might sound a little meagre, but I assure you that the content is dedicated to something spectacular, one of the very few performances capable of moving me to tears. What I'm referring to is Stevie Wonder's appearance during the celebrations of Sting's 60th birthday in New York, interpreting "Fragile" from the English musicians' studio album "Nothing But the Sun" recorded in 1987. Wonder's magical and gentle voice along with his accordion solo meet the dramatic and sweet notes of Sting's guitar playing over the author's eloquent and authentic poetry. Stevie Wonder seems to be surrounded by some enchanting aura every time he walks on stage; the musicians, the background singers and Sting himself look delighted while accompanying Wonder with deep admiration. The song, already so marvellous, is enriched and brought to life by the breathtaking sonority unleashed by Wonder's unique and emotional melodies. Stevie's first words right before singing are "I love this song" and his interpretation really sounds like a homage to Sting coming from the bottom of his heart; Sting pays his respects to his colleague with gratitude and esteem before leaving the stage. Some days I feel hate and repulsion towards humanity for the guilt we stained ourselves with and for the wrongs done to the World and to one another. Other days, however, seem to remind me that human beings are also able to accomplish extraordinary things, and that music is one of the highest expressions of art we can create. Music is often abused and misused for different purposes, but I'm thankful to artists such as Sting and Stevie Wonder for adoring and venerating it the way it deserves to be. I am attaching the video of said performance for those interested in witnessing this "fascination". Thank you all, enjoy your Sunday! Martina.